preanalytical errors module 2

what is the basal state?

the resting metabolic condition of the body in the morning.

What state provides consistent, standardized values that form the basis for accurate comparison and reliable reference range

basal state

why is specimen labeling so important?

because there are millions of patients.

what is the reference range?

represents the set of laboratory values expected in healthy individuals

what is hemoconcentration?

a relative increase in the concentration of red blood cells and other blood solids caused by a decrease in blood plasma volume

how does stress affect venipunctures?

triggers physiological changes. increases white blood cells, adrenal hormones. decreases serum iron

how does smoking affect venipunctures?

affects multiple body systems and laboratory measurements. increases cortisol, WBCs, hemoglobin. decreases pulmonary function and capillary circulation. must be documented

what is jaundice?

when biilirubin builds up in the blood. causes yellow discoloration of the skin, sclera, and serum

how does gender affect venipunctures?

males have higher RBC counts, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels

how does pregnancy affect venipunctures?

alters plasma volume; rises until about the 34th week.

how does the patients position affect venipunctures?

supine position: decreased RBC count. standing position: increased potassium and protein concentration

how does fever affect venipunctures?

affects metabolism. increases cortisol and WBC counts.

how does exercise affect venipunctures?

can elevate several test results. increases lactic acid, creatinine, and protein. people should avoid vigorous exercise before test

how does drug therapy affect venipunctures?

medications can interfere with or intentionally alter laboratory results

how does diurnal variation affect venipunctures?

certian analytes fluctuate naturally throughout the day. cortisol and iron levels can differ by as much as 50% between 8am and 4pm

how does diet affect venipunctures?

fasting is required for many chemistry test to ensure accuracy

how does dehydration affect venipunctures?

dehydration causes hemoconcentration. may falsely elevate test results

how does age affect venipunctures?

affects both specimen collection and result interpretation

what are some areas to avoid when doing a venipunture?

burns or scars, tattoos, edema, hematoma, mastectomy, IV Sites, VADs, fistula,

What is the most common non-blood specimen encountered in the lab?

urine